Kind of accommodation

How do I book flights?

We recommend using sites such as skyscanner.net to research flights and then discuss the options with your local travel agent. They can often match fares you find and can also assist with booking your travel insurance. Travel insurance is a must on all our trips and means you can travel with peace of mind.

What's included?

Our trips fares are in USD$ and include just about everything, specifically:

-Guiding services
-Accommodation
-Meals and snacks (except on days specified in our itineraries where we have found people enjoy sampling the local cafes, eateries and bars)
-All your activities (although there are optional extras available if you want more)
-Transport for the duration of your trip
-All you need to do is arrive and bring some pocket money for souvenirs, a few drinks here and there if you want them and for a few meals.

What if I don’t have time to do a whole trip?

We appreciate that not everyone is able to take a lot of vacation or holiday time, so our trips are all really flexible. If you’re tight on time then we can talk through some shorter trip options that mean you can still have an amazing experience, but we can shorten it to suit your time frame. Call or email us and we’ll work it out for you.

What is the accommodation like on Active trips?

Our accommodation varies from trip to trip and day-to-day – you’ll stay in a variety of places from jungle lodges to mountain huts, local motels and friendly lodges. Our focus is on getting you out into amazing places in the most stunning parts of the world, so this isn’t a tour of the world’s fanciest hotels! Another focus of ours is having a good place to rest and rejuvenate at the end of a busy day, and to make sure we are fully charged for the next day’s activities, so you’ll always find yourself in a clean, comfortable room, quite often with a spectacular view.

Who else will be on the trip?

Our trips attract a wide range of people from all different backgrounds, countries and ages, which makes our small group adventures all the more interesting and fun. All our people tend to enjoy active lifestyles, great food, good company and new experiences. If this sounds like you, then you’ll be in good company. If you’re feeling nervous about travelling in a group, then you won’t be the only one and we can assure you that it almost always works out to be a positive and life enriching experience. There’s also plenty of time to enjoy your own company if you don’t want to do group time for the whole time and you can go at your own pace on the trails. We’re really flexible down here and can ensure your trip is everything you want it to be, and hopefully more.

Do I need any outdoor experience?

You certainly don’t need any technical skills (such as kayaking lessons or rope skills) but some outdoor experience in hiking would be an advantage or a good idea to try before you arrive. This is so you can be familiar with your hiking boots and have them well worn in (blisters are really no fun), setting a comfortable and sustainable hiking pace and making sure you are all set to have the best possible time.

What level of fitness do I need?

It’s difficult to specify a fitness level as there’s no universal rule, but we’ve found time and time again that people who enjoy active lifestyles involving walking, gym sessions, swimming, travelling, bike riding or keeping fit, usually love our trips. They can be challenging in places, but with a few practice hikes under your belt before you arrive, you’ll find yourself in good shape to enjoy yourself thoroughly. If you’re looking for a bus tour, then our trips are probably not for you, as while we do have to spend a bit of time in our trusty transport, it’s only so we can see the best places and get to the next stunning hike or viewpoint to get out and get our boots dirty.

Will it be too active for me?

This is the question we get asked the most! Our trips are designed for real people who enjoy the outdoors, so you don’t have to be a triathlete in training or anything! (But if you are, that’s all good too). You’ll find our trips are active, challenging in places (like on the Inca trail or on the 3-day hike in New Zealand for instance) and will leave you rejuvenated, refreshed and full of energy by the end. Age and experience is not important, as long as you enjoy being outdoors, are open to trying new things and want to feel a fantastic sense of achievement at the end of every day then our trips are for you. We always recommend doing practice hikes and a bit of training before your trip so you can enjoy your experience all the more. Our fantastic guides will encourage you on your way, make sure you are comfortable and well informed, and ensure you are having the trip of a lifetime. You will be in good company!

Hiking New Zealand is pure pleasure – there are no snakes, no poison ivy or poison anything else for that matter and nothing out here that can eat you. From luscious rain forest walks and dramatic boardwalks over fragile environments to rugged alpine passes and breathtaking coastal trails, hiking in New Zealand has something for everyone. Hiking is known as "tramping" by most New Zealanders, particularly when referring to multi-day hiking trips in the backcountry, so you will often hear people say they're off for a tramp - which could surprise you if you haven't heard the term before!

Our Hiking Tours

We have been guiding our own hiking tours in New Zealand since 1996. Tours from 5-14 days starting at US$1999.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains thousands of tracks throughout New Zealand, along with hundreds of backcountry huts and campsites, and is armed with a large slice of the country's annual budget to make sure our most scenic land is available and accessible for everyone to enjoy.

The tracks serviced by DOC vary from short 30-minute scenic strolls to long-distance back-country trails in remote areas, such as the 8+ day Dusky Track in Fiordland. The style and level of maintenance of track varies - some of the shorter tracks will be well-graded, some even wheelchair-accessible, whereas at the the other end of the scale are the "poled routes" where the trail is marked by poles every hundred metres or so, with no clearly defined trail. The majority of tracks however are marked at regular intervals by bright orange plastic triangles. At the start of each trail, and at every major track junction there are signposts marking the different routes, along with approximate times to each destination along that route. Hiking times are given, rather than distances, in order to avoid trouble or confusion, as depending on "undulations" (aka hills) on the trail, not all kilometres are created equal!

Want help planning your hiking trip?

There are so many hiking trails in New Zealand and there's plenty more to hiking New Zealand than just the Milford Track. If you're not sure of your plans just yet, a good place to start is our brochure. With a full fold-out map of New Zealand, information on our hiking trips, as well as lots of cool photos, it's a great place to begin your research.

Wherever you are in New Zealand, chances are you aren't far from a hiking trail – there are literally thousands! We have 14 National Parks and countless other wildlife reserves, so if you’re looking to do some hiking or walking, whether it’s just to stretch the legs quickly or for the better part of the day, your hiking options are wide-ranging and usually close at hand. Or join us for a hiking vacation – our guides would love to personally show you the best day hikes in New Zealand!

As an island country, 300km at it's widest point, with several mountain ranges, the weather in New Zealand can be very changeable at times. You should always check the forecast when you're going out for a day hike, and even though you may be only going out for a few hours, take enough spare clothing with you to cover all eventualities. Most DOC-maintained day hikes are well-marked with trails in good condition, many of which will be suitable for doing in a pair of hiking sneakers, but also, and particularly in some of the more remote areas, there are plenty of trails which will be take a little more effort, requiring more sturdy footwear.

The "Great Walks" are generally regarded as New Zealand's premier multi-day hikes. They have been afforded special status in order to better regulate the numbers of hikers on the trails to enhance the experience of those people, and to eliminate or minimise overcrowding and erosion isuues. The number of hikers is regulated by requiring pre-booking of beds in the backcountry huts along these tracks. During the main season, the cost for staying in these huts is considerably higher than for a normal backcountry hut, which helps subsidise the extra management required, but at the same time, the facilities are far better, with solar-powered lighting, gas stoves and flush toilets.

The tracks that make up the Great Walks are listed below:

North Island

Lake Waikaremoana Track - one of the more gentle Great Walks, this 46km track circumnavigates the picturesque Lake Waikaremoana over the course of 3 or 4 days, with plenty of opportunities for fishing and swimming.Tongariro Northern Circuit, part of which is the Tongariro Crossing. This 3-4 day track traverses up and around some of the most stunning volcanic scenery that New Zealand has to offer.Whanganui Journey - not strictly a great walk - this is an odd-one-out as it is actually a kayak trip - 145km down the Whanganui River, from Taumarunui to Pipiriki, which takes around 5 days, though it can be turned into a shorter 3-day trip with an exit at Pipiriki. This is an awesome adventure, visiting places only accessible by river, as it was in the early days of exploration and colonisation, by both Maori and Europeans.

South Island

The Milford Track is the jewel in New Zealand's hiking crown, an extremely popular 4-day track through Fiordland, from Lake Te Anau to the stunning Milford Sound.The Routeburn Track is a 32km, 3-day tramp between Glenorchy and The Divide, crossing through Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National parks.The Kepler Track, at 60km, is possibly the most challenging of the Great Walks, taking 3-4 days to complete. It is also the course for the Kepler Challenge - an 'ultra-marathon' trail running race of the entire track, which takes the winners around 5 hours to complete!The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is one of the most popular tramps for visitors to the country as it runs along the coastline of the sunniest part of the South Island, featuring some stunning beaches of golden sand and crystal-clear water.The Heaphxy Track is another hike in the northern South Island and at 79km (4-6 days) is the longest of the Great Walks, with some of the most diverse scenery, from the forests of the Kahurangi National Park to scenic West Coast beaches. It is also unique in that it is open to mountain bikers during the Winter Season.

Stewart Island

The Rakiura Track is a 2-3 day, 30-37km track with a great mix of beach and forest scenery.
If these Great Walks sound like your cup of tea then our Manuka trip is the ultimate choice – as part of the two week tour of the South Island, you’re able to customise days seven to eleven. You can either choose to hike the entire Milford Track and then rest the legs with a cruise on Milford Sound or take on our Great Walks Discovery, hiking sections of the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks before finishing with a wilderness cruise in Doubtful Sound.

If you wish to concentrate on hiking the iconic tracks of New Zealand and like your creature comforts, we’ve crafted this trip just for you. It has a strong focus on New Zealand’s natural history. Our guides have plenty of time to interpret the flora and fauna and explain the geological and social history of the areas you’ll visit. You also have the choice of a selection of the best day hikes Fiordland National Park has to offer, along with an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound, or hiking the famous Milford Track in its entirety. The ‘Manuka’ really is hiking New Zealand in style!

Activity level: The 'Manuka' is an active hiking trip, but has options to suit a wide range of fitness levels and outdoor experience. Typically hikes on the 'Manuka' trip take 3 to 6 hours to complete, with longer hikes on the Milford Track Guided Walk option.

The Hollyford 3 Day Wilderness Journey is an all inclusive spectacular walk from the mountains to the sea that is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. Unlike any other walk, the scenery is geologically spectacular and ever changing - snow capped mountains, glaciers, rainforests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, reefs, sand dunes and surf. The experiences are diverse- hiking, wildlife interaction, historical tales, jet boating, and a magnificent scenic flight to Milford Sound.

Accommodation is in sophisticated lodges with twin share rooms. The expert guides will ensure your group (maximum 16 people) experience New Zealand's wilderness at its best.

Pre Departure Briefing

Your pre departure briefing begins at 6pm. Your guide will explain the details of the Track; arrange storage for your surplus luggage and hand out rain jackets and backpacks to those requiring them.

Day 1: Waterfalls, Pyke River Lodge, Glow Worms

Depart for the Hollyford Valley and travel through the majestic Eglington Valley to the start of the Track in the Hollyford Valley visiting Gunn's Camp museum on the way. Then re-trace the footsteps of early explorers along the Hollyford River to Pyke River Lodge. As the Track undulates gently through native beech forest and beside tumbling waterfalls enjoy interesting historical tales and interpretation of the forest and bird life. In the evening you can visit our nearby glow-worm colony.

Walking Distance: Approx 17kms (12miles).

Day 2: Lakes, Jet Boating and 1000 year old trees

Begin your day with a short walk to Lake Alabaster and learn of the history and geology of the area whilst in the midst of stunning surroundings. Cross Fiordland's longest swing bridge and then enjoy a captivating jet boat journey down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow to the historic site of Jamestown that was intended to be the capital of the South Island in the late 1900's. Walk through the ancient Podocarp forest (New Zealand native pines) with huge Rimu, Totara and Kahikatea trees wrapped in massive Rata vines. Arrive at Martin's Bay Lodge by 5pm.

Walk through the young rejuvenating forest of Jerusalem Creek and visit the fur seal colony at Long Reef on the wild West Coast. You may see the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. Travel by jet boat to the beach and explore the seven kilometre Martins Bay Beach sand-dunes and lagoon. Learn about its history and its plant, sea and bird life. Return to Martins Bay Lodge and then enjoy a scenic flight to Milford Sound, with views of the Track route, Hollyford Valley and Mt Tutoko, Fiordland's highest peak.

Walking Distance: Approx 8kms (5miles).

The Hollyford Track Guided Walk History

Hollyford Track Guided Walks started life back in the 1940's when Davey Gunn opened up the track for guided walks. The walk was further developed by one of Davey Gunn's assistants, Ed Cotter.

In 1959 the Hollyford Valley was incorporated into the Fiordland National Park and in the mid sixties, jet-boating was added to the walk itinerary with the launch of the "the Davey Gunn" on Lake McKerrow.

In the early nineties, extensive improvements were made, including refurbishment and extension to Martins Bay Lodge Accommodation block and the bathroom unit, the building of a new Pyke River Lodge and the purchase of a new twin engine jetboat, and 20-seater coach. A strong customer focus was also introduced with time and effort being placed on getting the product right for the customer. The result has been a 100% recommend rate of the Hollyford Track to friends and family from 1500 of the past customers that have been surveyed.

Today the Hollyford Track Guided Walk is renowned as one of New Zealand's greatest walks with a diverse range of scenery, plant and wildlife and distinctly different experiences that are unequalled by any other walk in the country.

Your Fitness. Are You Up to the Challenge?

Following the course of the Hollyford River, the Hollyford Track is a low-altitude walk for anyone of reasonable fitness and of any age although we prefer guests to be over 10 years old. As all linen, duvets, towels and food are provided, you need only bring your personal gear keeping your packs light for a more enjoyable adventure.

An Amazing Variety of Wildlife

The huge variety of trees, vines, flowers and ferns, are home to an amazing range of bird life including wood pigeons, Kea, Kaka and owls, bellbirds, warblers, robins, chaffinches, cuckoo, tui and white heron as well as many species of sea birds. You may also see the huge bottlenose dolphins in the lower Hollyford River or Lake McKerrow, one of the two places in the world where they are found in fresh water. A feature of your itinerary is a visit to a colony of seals and, during certain months, the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin.

Unique New Zealand Adventure Activities

Unique New Zealand Adventure Activities The Hollyford Track is the only guided walk that includes walking, boating and flying; a scenic jet boat journey on the Hollyford River, a scenic flight into Milford Sound and an awe inspiring drive out from Milford Sound when returning to Te Anau. Experience the best of New Zealand adventure activities.

Warm, Welcoming Lodges

At the end of an invigorating day of exploration, you'll arrive at a warm and dry lodge, a hearty welcome and fine cuisine. The evening of Day One is spent at Pyke River Lodge, at the confluence of Hollyford and Pyke Rivers. Night two is spent at Martins Bay Lodge, close to mouth of the Hollyford River.

Fine Cuisine

The Lodge meals are a real treat of the Hollyford experience. Breakfasts are tasty, hearty and well balanced to give you just the right fuel for the day ahead.

Friendly guides educate and enlighten you with historical tales and interpretation of the environment around you.

To ensure you have a very "personal" Hollyford Track experience, group sizes are kept to a maximum of 16. This ensures the guides have the time to spend with you, answering questions and explaining the fascinating history of the Hollyford Valley from its creation. Because there is so much to share, only in small, intimate group sizes does this work.

What You Need to Bring for the Hollyford Track Guided Walk

"There is no such thing as bad weather just inappropriate clothing"

The walk is pleasantly challenging and highly rewarding, without being out of the reach of people with an average fitness level.

We suggest you bring the following items:

Sturdy footwear - tramping boots (worn in)
Two or more pairs woollen socks
Highly protective rain wear (hooded anorak)
Polar fleece - jersey
Spare jersey
Polypropylene long johns (1 or 2 pairs)
Polypropylene long sleeved tops (1 or 2)
Shorts (1 or 2 pairs)
Shirts
Peaked cap
Woollen hat or beanie - not a necessity
Nightwear
Light shoes for the evenings at the lodge
Trousers or track pants for the evenings at the lodge
Drinking water bottle
Should you get wet during the day, there are drying rooms at both the lodges so if you keep your gear lightweight and fast drying, it should dry overnight.
Equipment and Extras

You do not need any specialist equipment, however, you may like to include the following:

Insect repellent and sun block
Torch - not a necessity
Swiss Army Knife - for the boys in the group...
"Second skin" if you are prone to blisters
Your camera (extra film is a good idea)
The book you've been trying to read
Notepaper, pen, wallet, travel documents
Hollyford Track Guided Walk Supply

The Hump Ridge track is a 3 day loop trail at the very bottom of the New Zealand. This track takes you over 33miles (53km); from sea level up to the sub-alpine area of the Hump Ridge, and then over historic viaducts and past ancient villages in the midst of native beech forests, and returns to the start along the south coast beaches of Fiordland National Park. This track is New Zealand’s newest guided walk so you don’t have to carry a heavy backpack, just your clothes for the day and your lunch, as everything else is taken by helicopter from lodge to lodge for you. The lodges are new too, with all linen, hot showers, and meals provided. Summer is the perfect time to hike the Hump Ridge track, as Southland has the longest daylight hours in New Zealand.

History

Port Craig was once a major port for the South Coast. A small logging town that started in 1916 it boomed to over 200 hardy bushmen and their families in it’s prime. The Marlborough Timber Company planned to log one of the last significant coastal forests here, so they built a large sawmill and an extensive tramway system, along with a town and port facilities, however this was all shut down in 1929 in the face of a looming depression. Now, you can follow the Heritage trail around this once prosperous township and feel the sense of Port Craig as it once was.

Trains and viaducts
Percy Burn Viaduct is the largest surviving wooden viaduct in the world. A former logging tramway the viaduct was built in 1923 to allow logs to be carried using steam engines from Waitutu Forest through to Port Craig for milling. The Percy Burn stream cuts a deep gorge beneath the viaduct, which is 36 metres high and 125 metres (410 feet) long. Unfortunately, the timber here was not of high quality and proved costly to log, so together with falling timber prices the Port Craig operation was abandoned. As the viaduct was considered to be a magnificent feat of engineering, it was restored in the 1990s and included as part of the new Hump Ridge walking track.

Fred and Myrtle
Legend has it that Fred and Myrtle met when they were living in Port Craig, a remote port town on New Zealand's south coast. Fred and Myrtle were both working for the Port Craig Timber Company when they got married and went away for a short honeymoon to celebrate. Upon their return home they discovered that their town had packed up and ceased to be overnight (literally) and they now had no jobs, no friends and no livelihood - eek! Fred and Myrtle Flutey decided to move to Bluff, where Fred collected Paua (Abalone) shells for a hobby and polished them, so Myrtle decided to hang these on the walls of her house. Fred and Myrtle hosted an open home every day for 37 years, and until year 2000 more than a million visitors from all over the world came to Bluff to see the Paua House.

Hector's Dolphins
One of the smallest marine dolphins in the world, Hector's dolphins grow to no more than 1.5 metres in length. Only found in New Zealand's waters, this is the most easily recognised dolphin in New Zealand as being a distinctive grey colour with black and white markings and a round dorsal fin. Named after Sir James Hector who was the curator of the Colonial Museum in Wellington, now Museum of New Zealand & also known as Te Papa.

Track info

A pre-departure briefing starts 5.30pm the evening prior at the track office with drinks and nibbles. A track guide explains the details of the track, and arrange storage for any surplus luggage.

Day 1: After breakfast at your hotel in Tuatapere you’ll take a short helicopter ride over Te Waewae Bay to the start of the walk. You will then wander along boardwalks through the dense forest and then hike up the Hump Ridge to the top. When you arrive at Okaka Lodge you’ll have spectacular views in every direction – of Lakes Poteriteri and Hauroko, and the many mountain ranges of Fiordland National Park . If you still have energy then a detour to the summit rocks, tors and tarns a bit further on is a definite must (or you can pop out before breakfast tomorrow morning instead).

Day 2: After breakfast you wander down the Hump Ridge all the way to the sea – pausing a while at every viewpoint to make out Solander Island further south, and Stewart Island just behind that. After lunch at the track junction you’ll walk along the old tram line and over the mighty wooden viaducts to the historic Port Craig village. Once you’ve arrived to your lodgings at Port Craig, meander down the side track to the beach and check out the Hector’s dolphins that live at the old wharf poles in the surf.

Day 3:For this last day you will first walk out along coastal forest trails, then along beautiful beaches (if the tide is right, otherwise we’ll stick to the inland track!) to the point that we started at a few days ago, and then back in to Tuatapere for a celebration of our 3 day journey.

What you need to bring for your Hump Ridge Guided Walk

At the pre-departure briefing in Tuatapere there are day packs, hiking poles, gaiters and raincoats available for your use if you require, or you can bring your own.

A special feature of the Hump Ridge Guided Walk is the provision of the daily helicopter flights to transport your luggage. You will need a large pack or sports bag for this (soft bags, not hard suitcases as these do not transport well in helicopters), however there is a maximum weight of 15kg per person. Excess luggage may be left in the office while you're away.

Essential items you will need to bring with you:
Day pack with waterproof liner and cover
Good waterproof raincoat with hood
Boots or strong walking shoes, preferably with ankle support
Woollen (merino) or polypropylene thermal underwear (top & bottom) – at least two sets.
Polar fleece jacket or top
T shirt for fine weather
Warm hat – fleece or woollen
Gloves
Pair of shorts and trousers
Woollen or thermal socks – three pairs
Underwear
Pair of light shoes or sandals
Change of clothing for the evening
Sunscreen
Blister pack and or footfleece
Small personal torch
Personal medicine, toilet bag
Camera
Water bottle
Optional items you may want to include:
Sun hat
Swimsuit
Spare laces
Journal
Walking poles
Money for additional drinks*
We do not recommend that you walk in cotton garments, jeans or silk thermals. Perspiration means you are likely to feel damp and cold inside the best raincoat. We recommend you place all your clothing inside your pack liner for added rain protection. Keep your pack as light as possible while still taking the essentials.

Each day you will carry your day pack with packed lunch and personal items that you may require throughout the day, eg water, camera, hats, warm layer, medications, etc.

* 3-course evening meals and New Zealand wine is provided each evening, as well as breakfast and picnic lunches (which you carry). There are additional NZ wines and beverages available for sale at both lodges.

Fitness Level

A moderate to high level of fitness is required to complete this walk. The first day of the walk you climb over 800 metres, so staircase or hill climbing is strongly recommended as part of your pre trip walking regime, and wearing hiking boots which provide firm ankle support when hiking over rough terrain of rocks and tree roots. If you are not a regular walker we suggest you begin a daily walking regime 6-8 weeks prior to departure, gradually increasing the distance you walk, carrying a backpack.

Nelson Lakes National Park protects 102,000 hectares of the northern most Southern Alps. The Park offers a quiet, yet dramatic experience of craggy mountains, tranquil beech forests, fields of tussock, and clear streams and lakes, both big and small. With its long forested valleys, high passes, large areas above the bush line, lakes and tarns, the landscape is both varied and well adapted to tramping. This is area is filled with long mountain ranges separated by forested valleys, which were gouged out by glaciers in the last ice age.

The climate is moderate by comparison with other areas in the Southern Alps. Many other features left from this same period remain, such as the two lakes of Rotoroa and Rotoiti after which the park is named, and where fly-fishing for brown and rainbow trout is popular.

The forests are full of birds like tomtits, robins and the tiny rifleman, New Zealand's smallest bird. South Island kaka are also present. The vegetation is predominantly beech, with the red and silver species growing in lower, warmer sites and mountain beech at higher altitudes. The bush line, where forest gives way to alpine plants is a remarkable feature of the park; the change is abrupt and uniform as if drawn with a ruler.

In summer the alpine fell fields teem with flowers, though typically they tend to be pale colours, white, light blue and sometimes yellow. This heavily protected native bush lets you see New Zealand as it would have been 500 years ago. Tramping tracks in the Nelson Lakes are characterized by challenging terrain and spectacular views. Nelson Lakes National Park is especially well suited for tramping as the public-use Department of Conservation Huts provide rustic, yet comfortable basic accommodation for multi-day treks. The park is also well equipped with tracks and bridges, yet offers untracked and more remote valleys for those seeking greater challenge, remoteness and wilderness.

Read more about hiking in Nelson Lakes National Park on our Rimu tour.

Rimu Ultimate New Zealand Adventure

14 Days

This is our signature adventure and a great, outdoorsy way to see New Zealand, especially if you like a challenge. We’ve been fine-tuning this perennial favourite since 1996 and it’s simply an awesome trip. You’ll explore the most beautiful, famous and little-known places in the South Island – up close and personal – with legendary hospitality and our unsurpassed attention to detail.

Activity level: The ‘Rimu’ is one of our more adventurous trips, but has options to suit a wide range of ages and outdoor experience. Typically, hikes on the ‘Rimu’ trip take 3 to 6 hours to complete, with longer hikes on the multi-day backpacking option.

The Queen Charlotte Track offers a spectacular trip through the Marlborough Sounds, from the historic Ship Cove through to Anakiwa in the Grove Arm.
It passes through lush coastal forest, historic bays, and along skyline ridges with unsurpassed views of Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.
Most of the track is wide and benched, and all major streams have been bridged.
For walkers, boots and a good level of fitness are required, and the 71-kilometre trip can be done in 3-5 days.
The entire Queen Charlotte Track is open to mountain biking from March 1 to November 30 each year. The trip takes about 13 hours.
At other times of the year, from December 1 to February 28, mountain bikes are permitted on the Kenepuru Saddle to Anakiwa section of the track only.

HISTORY
Long before the inter-island ferries plied its waters, Queen Charlotte Sound (Totaranui) was an important trade route for Maori, and provided good shelter and bountiful seafood for the many Maori who lived there.
The early European explorer, Captain James Cook, also took advantage of the shelter and natural bounty of the Sounds, making Ship Cove (Meretoto) his New Zealand base. He spent more than 100 days there between 1770 and 1777.
Since that time, the area has been the scene of a diverse range of activities from gold and antinomy mining, whaling and fishing through to tourism and forestry.

NATURAL HISTORY
The track passes through a variety of vegetation types, from grassy farmland to undisturbed native forests. At sea level, the forests are particularly lush. Ferns, tree ferns, nikau palms, climbing kiekie vines and perching plants make up a spectacular coastal forest.
Several forest birds are common along the track, including the bellbird, tui, fantails and the weka.
Along the shoreline shags (cormorants), gannets, terns and shearwaters can also be glimpsed.

GETTING THERE
Nearly all walkers and mountain bikers arrive via Picton, a small town nestled in the Marlborough Sounds, at the top of the South Island. Picton can be reached by road from Christchurch or Nelson, or by commercial ferry from Wellington.

TRACK GUIDE
For walkers
Ship Cove to Resolution Bay, 2 hrs, 4.5km Most walkers start from Ship Cove, which can only be reached by boat. Transport can be arranged through a range of Picton tourist operators, who can also carry your pack to each night's intended destination.
No camping is permitted at Ship Cove.
Resolution Bay to Endeavour Inlet, 3hrs, 10.5km
The track follows an old bridle path over a ridge and into Endeavour Inlet. Cabin and motel accommodation is available along the way.
Endeavour Inlet to Camp Bay, 4hrs, 11.5km
The track stays near the shoreline on the way to Camp Bay, where there is a DOC campsite. Cabin accommodation is also available at near-by Punga Cove.
Camp Bay to Torea Saddle, 8hrs, 20.5km
This is the longest and most arduous section of the walk, as it traverses the main ridge between Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.
DOC campsites are located above the Bay of Many Coves and Kumutoto Bay. Near Torea Saddle, there is a DOC campsite at Cowshed Bay and accommodation at Portage Hotel.
Torea Saddle to Mistletoe Bay, 4hrs, 7.5km
This part of the track also follows the main ridge, with a significant climb out of Torea Saddle.
A DOC campsite is located at Mistletoe Bay, and there is also accommodation at near-by Te Mahia Bay.
Mistletoe Bay to Anakiwa, 4hrs, 12.5km
This section follows old bridle paths high above the water. There is a DOC campsite en route at Umungata (Davies Bay). At Anakiwa, bus and boat transport is available to Picton and near-by accommodation.

For Bikers
Ship Cove to Camp Bay, 5hrs, 26.5km
Ship Cove can only be reached by boat. Transport can be arranged through a range of Picton tourist operators, who can also arrange to carry your bags to your intended destination.
No camping is permitted at Ship Cove, but there is a DOC campsite at Camp Bay. Accommodation is also available on the way through Endeavour Inlet and at Punga Cove.
This section of track is mostly single-track, and is the most technically demanding part of the ride. This section is closed to mountain biking from 1 December to 28 February each year.
Camp Bay to Torea Saddle, 4hrs, 20.5km
The section of the track leads bikers on a long climb to the main ridge between Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds, but offers spectacular views.
DOC campsites are located above Bay of Many Coves and Kumutoto Bay. Near Torea Saddle, there is a DOC campsite at Cowshed Bay and accommodation at Portage Hotel.
This section is open to mountain biking throughout the year.
It is also possible to cycle from Camp Bay to Torea Saddle via the Kenepuru Road, which offers an easier ride at sea level.
Torea Saddle to Anakiwa, 4hrs, 20km
This makes a good day trip, with bikers able to continue from Anakiwa to Picton along the road.
This section is available to mountain biking throughout the year.
It is also possible to cycle as far as Mistletoe Bay via the Kenepuru Road, which offers an easier ride at sea level from Torea Saddle.

HUT AND CAMPSITES
There are a number of accommodation houses along the track route, providing cabin, motel and hotel lodgings and tent sites.
There are also seven DOC campsites, each with toilets and a water supply. Camping fees should be deposited in the self-registration boxes at the campsites, or paid to the DOC office in Picton.

Important InformationAll users of the track are reminded that:

Fires: No open fires are permitted. The use of gas cookers if preferred.Cooking: There are no cooking facilities at the campsites.Water: It is advisable to carry water between the Kenepuru and Te Mahia Bay saddles. Please use water in the campsites sparingly.Private land: Sections of the track cross private land. Please respect the owners' property, and do not take vehicles, firearms or dogs on the track.Rubbish: There are no rubbish facilities on the track. Please take your rubbish away with you.Wasps: Wasps are common in late summer and autumn. Carry anti-histamines if you are allergic to their stings.
Walkers should remember that the track is open to mountain bikers throughout the year.
Expect to meet mountain-bikers: Bikers are allowed on the Kenepuru Saddle to Anakiwa section of the track throughout the year. They are also allowed on the Ship Cove to Anakiwa section from March1 to November 30 annually.
Respect their right to be there: Bikers have as much right to be on the track as you.
Co-operate with their movements: Help bikers to help you. No one wants collisions or close shaves.
Mountain bikers are reminded to observe the Mountain Bikers Code at all times. In particular:Give way to walkers: Walkers have the right of way at all times. It's your responsibility to make room for them on the track.Overtake with care: Don't surprise walkers from behind. Carry a bell or give a yell.Control your speed: Don't go so fast that you can't stop within the visible distance ahead of you.Avoid excessive braking: Heavy rear braking can damage the track surface, especially after rain.

This trip includes some iconic South Island rides, from the stunning coastal roads of the West Coast to the historic Central Otago Rail Trail. Your guides will share our favourite lesser-known routes as well. The scenery and terrain you’ll cover is as diverse as it is beautiful. We generally cycle 40 to 100 kilometres (25 to 60 miles) a day and you’ll be fully vehicle-supported, so there’s plenty of flexibility and freedom on the road. If you’re keen to see New Zealand from handlebar level, with plenty of creature comforts along the way, you’re bound to love the ‘Weka’!

Activity level: You must have a reasonable level of cycling fitness to enjoy yourself on the 'Weka', although fitness and experience are not as important as attitude. You should be in the habit of doing at least some riding and be comfortable in the saddle.

Queenstown is a mountain biking mecca and riders of any ability are spoilt for choice – from cruisy riverside and lakefront trails, to back country bush and mountain tracks, it's all here. You'll have at least one free day in Queenstown on any of our South Island trips and you are guaranteed good riding, whether you choose to follow a gravel track up to and around scenic Moke Lake, race down a single track from the top of the gondola or explore one of the many mountain biking tracks along the lakefront that are easily accessible from town. For a splurge, book a heli-biking tour and get dropped off at the top of a remote track by helicopter.

For a couple more days of pedaling, choose the Queen Charlotte Track mountain biking option on our Rimu tour.

With a full fold-out map of New Zealand, information on our biking adventures and lots of cool photos, our brochure is a great place to begin your research. We're based in Queenstown and know all the local rides.

This is our signature adventure and a great, outdoorsy way to see New Zealand, especially if you like a challenge. We’ve been fine-tuning this perennial favourite since 1996 and it’s simply an awesome trip. You’ll explore the most beautiful, famous and little-known places in the South Island – up close and personal – with legendary hospitality and our unsurpassed attention to detail.

Activity level: The ‘Rimu’ is one of our more adventurous trips, but has options to suit a wide range of ages and outdoor experience. Typically, hikes on the ‘Rimu’ trip take 3 to 6 hours to complete, with longer hikes on the multi-day backpacking option.

Itinerary

Monday — Arrive, snorkel with fur seals or hike Kaikoura Peninsula
Most people leave the Northern Hemisphere on a Saturday evening, arriving in Auckland early Monday morning. You’ll lose a day crossing the dateline – but you get it back on the way home! It’s a short flight to Christchurch, in the South Island, where we’ll meet you. We’ll start your trip by travelling up the coast to the seaside town of Kaikoura where you have a choice of snorkeling with the local fur seals or hiking. You’ll be outfitted with everything you need to swim with the friendly New Zealand fur seals (Arctocephalus forsteri) as they cavort in the water, and a specialist guide will accompany you. If you prefer to stay ashore, we’ll hike to the scenic Kaikoura Peninsula past weathered limestone cliffs to watch another colony of fur seals basking on the rocks and playing in the eddies.

Today is a relaxed introduction to New Zealand. Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll probably find jetlag is no big deal. For instance, it’s a 12-hour direct overnight flight from the West Coast of the USA to Auckland and there’s only a 3-hour time difference between New Zealand and US Pacific time. If you’re coming from further afield, you’ll appreciate the gentle start to your New Zealand adventure.
Admiral Creighton Bed & Breakfast, Kaikoura (Lunch, Dinner)

Tuesday (morning) — Visit vineyard
From Kaikoura, we’ll travel along spectacular coastline for a couple of hours to Blenheim, in the Marlborough wine region. We’ll visit Forrest Estate Winery to sample some of their fantastic wines and have a picnic lunch before we head off for our various activities.

Friday — Hike Punakaiki Rainforest, explore Hokitika
We’ll spend most of today hiking the Inland Pack Track through temperate rainforest and limestone canyons in the footsteps of the gold miners who established this trail over a century ago. While we’re in Punakaiki, we’ll also check out the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes – aptly named limestone formations that have been sculpted through relentless pounding by the Tasman Sea. Travelling along the scenic coastline, we’ll stretch our legs in Hokitika and check out local art galleries and pounamu-carving workshops (‘pounamu’ is Maori for jade) before carrying on to Okarito Lagoon. With a population of 31 people, Okarito is a quirky beach community that is virtually unknown, even to New Zealanders, due to its location off an obscure highway turnoff. This hamlet is an unforgettable place to stroll along the beach and watch the sun set over the Tasman Sea.
Okarito Beach House, Okarito (All meals)

Saturday — Kayak Okarito Lagoon, hike beach and forest
Okarito is home to the only native white heron colony in New Zealand, as well as a host of other interesting birds including the rare Okarito brown kiwi. One of the best ways to explore the lagoon is by sea kayak, gliding on the water with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Later, we’ll hike through lush coastal forest to Three Mile Lagoon, and wander back along the beautiful stony beach next to crashing waves. Okarito is also a great spot just to hang out and enjoy a good book, or talk philosophy around a bonfire on the beach.
Okarito Beach House, Okarito (All meals)

Sunday — Hike near Franz Josef Glacier
Just south of Okarito there are two formidable glaciers descending from the mountains into the rainforest near sea level – in terms of scenery, this place is off the charts. We’ll spend most of the day at Franz Josef Glacier where we’ll hike up through the forest to either Alex Knob or Roberts Point, both of which give great views of the ice. These hikes can be inaccessible in wet weather, so we may opt to hike to the terminal face of Fox Glacier, around Lake Matheson and to the Blue Pools near the Haast Pass instead.

Heli-hike option (add US$350 + tax)
A less strenuous, but outrageously scenic alternative to today’s hike is to heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier itself. After being fitted with crampons, ice axes and so on, you’ll board a turbine helicopter and fly towards the highest peaks of the Southern Alps, landing on the glacier at 1,300 m (4,000 ft) above sea level. Led by specialist glacier guides, you’ll hike through the grand ice formations of the glacier, checking out its crevasses, seracs and tunnels – no previous experience is required! The constant movement of the glacier means every day is different, so your guides will cut steps in the ice to make the most of the conditions. At the end of your hike on the ice, you’ll take another helicopter ride out of the mountains and back to civilisation.

The heli-hike is extremely popular, so we offer advance reservations with the helicopter operators and guiding company. At the time of booking, or up until one month before your trip, we can reserve a space for you, or you can leave your decision until the start of your trip and your guides will get you a spot if it’s available.

From Franz Josef, we’ll travel down the coast through lush forest and then inland to Makarora, a small village bordering Mt Aspiring National Park. We’ll stay at a family-style homestead on the edge of the village with incredible views of the mountains right outside your window.
The Homestead, Makarora (All meals)

Monday — Cycle Te Aroroa Track, hike Mt Iron
The landscape this morning changes rapidly from dense beech forests to semi-arid terrain. When we arrive at Lake Hawea, you’ll be fitted with a 21-speed front-suspension Specialized mountain bike for a scenic ride along the Te Araroa track. This gently undulating track follows the Hawea and Clutha Rivers through the rugged Central Otago landscape for 17 km (10 miles) to the charming lakeside town of Wanaka. Here we’ll stop for a picnic before hiking to the top of nearby Mt Iron – a hill with outstanding views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.From Wanaka, it’s a short but dramatic journey over the Cardrona Saddle to Queenstown, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. You’ll sleep sweetly tonight at a lakefront hotel located in the heart of Queenstown.
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (Breakfast, Lunch)

Tuesday — Free day in Queenstown
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand (if not the world!) and all the comforts of civilisation are packed into this tiny resort town: restaurants galore, sidewalk cafes, stylish lounge bars, day spas, and boutiques. You’ll also find incredible optional activities here, including horse trekking, a gondola, kayaking, fishing, winery tours, hang gliding, mountain biking, bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, as well as some great hiking opportunities. Or you can just soak up the atmosphere or lounge about reading a book. Your guides will happily share their favourite haunts and point you in the right direction for your free day today.
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (No meals incl.)

Wednesday — Hike Routeburn Track
This morning, we set off for our largest and perhaps most spectacular national park, Fiordland. We’ll hike part of the Routeburn Track for unsurpassed views of the Hollyford Valley, as well as Lake Marian and Mt Christina. We’ll take a short drive through the Homer Tunnel and emerge at the top of a spectacular glacier-carved valley for a memorable descent to the shore of Milford Sound. Rudyard Kipling rated this fiord as the eighth natural wonder of the world and it is truly breathtaking, with steep granite walls plunging over a thousand metres to the Tasman Sea and waterfalls cascading into deep inky water. Tonight we’ll stay in some fairly basic accommodation in a wonderful remote location, enjoying the simple things in life.
Milford Lodge, Milford Sound (All meals)

Thursday — Sea kayak Milford Sound, explore Fiordland National Park
Most people see Milford Sound from the deck of a ship but we’ve got a more active way – gliding along in sea kayaks, causing very little disruption for the best chance of getting up close and personal with the friendly fur seals and dolphins that are sometimes in the area. We have an early start for this awesome trip, run by specialist kayak guides, and the paddling here is equally suitable for beginners and experts. After kayaking, we’ll spend more time exploring the Fiordland wilderness on foot and check out some of its endemic flora and fauna like the kea (Nestor notabilis), New Zealand’s notoriously cheeky and intelligent alpine parrot and the kotukutuku (Fuchsia excorticate) the world’s largest fuchsia.
Lake Manapouri Inn, Manapouri (All meals)

Friday — Explore a high-country sheep farm
After a relaxed start we return to Queenstown, where you’ll have a couple of hours to get some lunch, do any last minute shopping, send postcards home, or whatever you might need to do before heading back into the wilderness for the remainder of your trip. Then we’ll drive through the tussockcountry of Lindis Pass to Lake Pukaki, where we stay on Hamish and Julia McKenzie’s 60,000 acre high-country sheep farm, called Braemar Station (‘Station’ is the New Zealand word for a big ranch). While we’re here, we’ll stay in a farm cottage that was built for the sheep shearers. It’s a rustic little place with views that will knock your socks off – the biggest mountains in New Zealand piercing the sky on the far side of a gorgeous cobalt-blue lake. With no lights for miles around, the stars on a clear night are like nothing you’ve ever seen. Many of our clients have told us this was one of their favourite places on the whole trip – just the place for your last couple of nights in New Zealand!
Shearers’ quarters, Braemar Station (Breakfast, Dinner)

Saturday — Hike Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
Mt Cook, named Aoraki or ‘cloud piercer’ by South Island Maori, is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Directly opposite the mountain, we have a stunning and little-known day hike to the main ridge above Mueller Glacier. It’s a tough slog up, but you’ll remember the view of the glacier and the surrounding peaks forever! The weather conditions are very important in this area, as it’s a true alpine climate notorious for sudden weather shifts. If we aren’t able to do the Mueller hike, or you’d like to take it a little easier, there’s an impressive hike up to a glacial lake (complete with icebergs!) at the base of the Hooker Glacier. Then we head back to Braemar Station for the last night of the ‘Rimu’. We’ll enjoy a celebratory dinner and drinks as we sit outside and watch the sun set on Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Shearers’ quarters, Braemar Station (All meals)

Sunday — Depart for home
We’ll depart after breakfast for the drive to Christchurch, arriving in time for afternoon flights. This is the end of your ‘Rimu’ trip and we’ll leave you refreshed and invigorated from the good food, exercise, rest, and great times you’ll have had with us in New Zealand! If you have a few more days in New Zealand, the ‘Kauri’ trip is a great addition to the ‘Rimu’ trip, where you’ll see the Maori culture, pristine beaches and geothermal areas of the North Island.
(Breakfast, Lunch)

You’ll be amazed by the variety of adventures and stunning scenery you’ll pack into just five days as we share the iconic locations and best-kept secrets of the ‘other side’ of New Zealand. The perfect addition to any of our South Island trips, the'Kauri' explores the North Island’s unique volcanic terrain, geothermal areas, white sandy beaches, Maori culture, the Hobbiton film set and arguably the best mountain day-hike in New Zealand.

Activity level: The 'Kauri' suits people of a wide range of fitness levels and outdoor experience. Typically hikes on the 'Kauri' trip take 2 to 4 hours to complete, with the exception being the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which requires around 7 hours, but there are shorter alternatives if you prefer.

Itinerary

Tuesday — Arrive, hike Karangahake Gorge and Waihi beach
If you leave the Northern Hemisphere on a Sunday evening, you’ll arrive in Auckland early on Tuesday morning and we’ll meet you at the airport. You’ll lose a day to the dateline – but you get it back on the way home! If you’ve just finished one of our South Island trips, we’ll meet you in central Auckland or at the airport. Leaving the city behind us, we’ll head to Karangahake Gorge for a hike through a spectacular landscape that has a rich gold mining history. After the hike, we’ll travel to Waihi Beach to explore a series of headlands, clad in native Pohutakawa trees, and secluded Orokawa Beach. If the weather’s nice here, we’ll have a swim in the warm South Pacific waters after lunch before travelling through kiwifruitgrowing country to Rotorua, where there’s a great deal of geothermal activity. Here, you’ll see steaming pools of mud, fumaroles and smell the distinctive whiff of sulfur.
Cedarwood Lakeside Resort, Rotorua (Lunch, Dinner)

Wednesday — Hike Lakes Okataina and Tarawera, Maori feast and cultural performance
Today we’ll explore the virgin forest around Lake Okataina and hike alongside its deep blue waters to the site of an ancient Maori settlement. We’ll then continue over the ridge to Lake Tarawera, which has been sculpted by intermittent volcanic activity that still continues in various forms. Mt Tarawera was the scene of an enormous eruption in the late 19th century and you’ll be able to see the effects of this cataclysmic event. Rotorua is the centre of Maori culture in New Zealand and the influence of the Maori people can be seen everywhere. Tonight you’ll enjoy a cultural performance by members of the Ngati Rongomai tribe and share a traditional feast called a hangi. The meal is prepared by wrapping food and burying it in the earth to cook over hot stones. This healthy cooking method is akin to steaming and imparts a wonderful smoky flavour.
Cedarwood Lakeside Resort, Rotorua (All meals)

Thursday — Mountain bike Whakarewarewa Forest, hike to Huka Falls
This morning we’ll show you our favourite highlights of Rotorua before heading out to bike on the trails in Whakarewarewa Forest. The biking is a real highlight on the Kauri trip and we have options to suit all abilities. If you prefer not to bike, you can stay and soak in the local mineral spas. This afternoon we hike along New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, to the impressive Huka Falls. Travelling further south, we follow the shores of Lake Taupo, an enormous volcanic cauldera and the site of the world’s largest eruption in the last 70,000 years. We’ll stay on the shores of the Tongariro River, New Zealand’s most famous trout fishing river, and our hosts tonight, Richard and Jill, will point you in the right direction if you’d like to cast a line!
Creel Lodge, Turangi (All meals)

Friday — Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing, soak in hot pools
Just south of Turangi are three massive volcanoes (Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu) – as well as Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and the fourth oldest in the world. Here you’ll have the opportunity to do what is considered the best mountain day-hike in the country, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This full-day hike is challenging and unforgettable – the rewards are definitely worth the effort! The trail takes you through arid volcanic terrain that includes emerald lakes, cold mountain springs, lava flows, active craters and steam vents – it’s unlike anything else in New Zealand. If you prefer, there are easier hikes available, such as a trail at the base of Mount Ruapehu, the highest active volcano in New Zealand. Tonight, we’ll all head to some natural thermal springs to soak tired muscles and have a celebratory dinner for our last night together.
Creel Lodge, Turangi (All meals)

Saturday — Hike Pureora Forest, explore Hobbiton, depart for home
For our last day together, we’ll head to the spectacular Pureora Forest and hike through groves of huge native trees, where you’ll find every shade of green you could imagine. After filling our lungs with plenty of fresh forest air, we’ll journey to The Shire, Peter Jackson’s elaborate Hobbiton movie set, for a bit of fun. Even those who haven’t seen the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit will be amazed to see how this incredible pastoral landscape was transformed from rolling green hills into the ultra-realistic fantasy setting of Middle Earth. After we’ve stretched our legs exploring The Hobbit capital, we’ll head back to Auckland where your Kauri trip finishes. We’ll have you at the airport in time to catch evening flights back home, or down south for one of our South Island trips.
(Breakfast, Lunch)

Queenstown IS the capital of modern Bungy Jumping, there's no doubt about that. You can't really come all the way to Queenstown without making a visit to the ‘K bridge' (the old bridge that crosses the Kawarau river), which in 1988 became the site of the world's first commercial bungy operation, AJ Hackett Bungy. It's only 43 metres (141 ft) tall, but it's an almighty thrill jumping down towards (or even into) those green waters. Over the last 20+ years AJ Hackett together with his business partner Henry Van Asch have become very successful entrepreneurs growing their bungy business into a global empire. The company now has other operations in New Zealand, Australia, Bali, Macau, Germany, France and one soon to be in Russia!

Bungy Origins
The word ‘bungy' as used by AJ Hackett is Kiwi slang for an elastic strap, but the word ‘bungee' is much older and originates from the West Country dialect of the English language and means anything ‘thick and squat', but by the 1930s tended to mean ‘eraser'. You may be wondering where this is going, but actually long before baby boomers were seeking their thrills, young men in Vanuatu were jumping off wooden towers 20-30metres (66-98ft) high with two tree vines wrapped around their ankles! Land diving, as it is known, started with the legend of a woman who was dissatisfied with her husband, Tamalie. It is sometimes claimed that the woman was upset that her husband was too vigorous regarding his sexual wants, so she trekked away into the forest. Her husband began hiking after her, so she climbed a banyan tree. Tamalie climbed after her, and so she tied lianas to her ankles and jumped and survived. Her husband jumped after her, but did not tie lianas to himself, which caused him to plummet and die. The men performed the original land diving so that they would not be tricked again.

History of the Jet Boat
If you'd been touring New Zealand's South Island around the farming village of Fairlie, in the first few years of the 1900s, you may have come across a young boy hiking along a riverbank with his dog behind him, faithfully pulling a trolley loaded with a kayak. Probably a slightly unusual sight, but this was Bill Hamilton's first attempt at making it easy to move up and down one of New Zealand's many fast flowing and shallow rivers. He'd kayak downstream and then the dog would do the hard work when it came to having another go. The idea of building a boat that could navigate these knee-deep rivers with ease was kept as a dream in the back of that boy's mind for decades to come.

Bill Hamilton, or Sir Charles William Feilden Hamilton as he would later be formally known, always had innovation and excellence in his blood (not an uncommon trait amongst us Kiwis!). At the age of 21, he purchased the 10,000 hectare Irishman Creek Station (‘station' is the Kiwi name for ‘ranch'). The farm is actually just a few miles from Braemar Station, where we stay on our Rimu trip, and a short distance from the hiking trails of Mount Cook National Park. In addition to the sheep station, he quickly built his own workshop and powered it with a hydroelectric dam that he constructed on the property. To build the dam, he also developed his own type of excavator, which was later used for local earth-moving projects.

Bill was a self-taught engineer and often solved problems with unusual solutions. During the Second World War, Bill's workshop expanded and they produced munitions as well as a range of earth-moving equipment. The demand for the excavators and other machinery continued after the war and Bill decided to open a manufacturing plant in Christchurch to produce excavators, bulldozers and other hydraulic equipment. This move allowed him to convert the workshop at Irishman Creek Station into a research and development facility – sort of a Kiwi non-military version of Lockheed Martin's ‘Skunk Works'.

With time to develop ideas, Bill returned to his childhood dream of the shallow-water speed-boat and in the early 1950s developed his first jet boat. The concept was to have an inboard jet unit at the rear of the boat that sucked water up and then squirted it out of a narrow nozzle at the rear. This would push the boat forward, but without requiring a propeller deep beneath the water that would hit rocks and other obstacles in the shallow rivers. Initial attempts at the jet boat were somewhat unsuccessful, but a breakthrough came when Bill decided to move the nozzle so the jet of water came out above the waterline. This reduced drag on the boat enormously, and modern jet boating was born. Bill quickly pushed the capabilities of his boats and introduced the now famous “Hamilton Turn” (a full spin at speed) of the boat. Bill's jet boats quickly developed, with the steering nozzle rapidly improving.

In 1960 his son Jon was amongst the crew that were the first to take some jet boats up (and down) a 740 km (460 miles) stretch of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Unfortunately, Bill couldn't make it because he had broken his arm while jet boating in New Zealand a few weeks before. Jon Hamilton was the only driver on that expedition able to conquer the infamous Lava Falls stretch of the Colorado River. In 1974, Bill Hamilton was knighted for his “services to manufacturing” and on March 30, 1978, one of New Zealand's great inventors and engineers passed away.

Nowadays, jet boats can be found all around New Zealand and the world.Improvements have been made to the jet units and modern jet boats are now both highly manoeuvrable and fast.

One of the best places to see jet boats operating – or go for a jet boat ride – is right here in Queenstown, New Zealand, where there are a number of companies running jet boat trips on the local rivers. Perhaps the best known is Shotover Jet, where the boats are run through a dramatic narrow rock canyon just inches from the surrounding rocks and passengers are treated to several exhilarating 360-degree spins.

Sea kayaking tours are a splendid way to enjoy New Zealand's pristine coastline, amazing sounds and rugged fiords. Because we cater for both beginners and advanced paddlers you won't need any previous sea kayaking experience, just a partner to paddle with in a modern double sea kayak.

Sea Kayaking Tour Options

Marlborough Sounds: Sea Kayaking on Queen Charlotte Sound
You can spend several days paddling on Queen Charlotte Sound near Picton as part of our Rimu 14-day South Island adventure (see pictures and read more about the Queen Charlotte Sound sea kayaking option). This optional sea kayaking tour is a highlight for many of the trip for many people who love the stunning scenery and the remote waterfront lodges.

Sea Kayaking on Okarito Lagoon
Paddle out to the White Heron colony on Okarito Lagoon as part of either our Rimu 14-day South Island adventure or Manuka 14-day hiking tour. Sea Kayaking is by far the best way to enjoy the wildlife and grandeur of the lagoon. This is one of New Zealand's premiere eco-experiences for wildlife and natural wetlands; here you can enjoy nature on your own terms. We have kayaks and canoes to suit the special conditions on Okarito Lagoon.

Sea Kayaking tours on Milford Sound
You can also Sea Kayak through Milford Sound on our Rimu 14-day South Island adventure, Manuka 14-day hiking tour and Tui 8-day South Island trips. Since we stay in protected waters, all our sea kayaking is suitable for beginners - but even veterans will be blown away by the views that the Milford Sound offers including stunning waterfalls and the world famous Mitre peak.

Other Sea Kayaking Vacation Options

The short travelling distances between paddling destinations allows for a variety of sea kayaking experiences leaving you with options to experience unrivalled fresh water kayaking on our pristine lakes through to multi day coastal trips. It simply would be imposable to list all the sea kayaking tours possible, so we have created a short list of our favourites.

Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is famous for its spectacular scenery, long sandy beaches and friendly resort towns with unique visitor attractions. Coromandel is a top rating holiday playground for both New Zealanders and tourists from around the world.

Bay of Islands
The Bay of Island is renowned for some of the most beautiful scenery in New Zealand. The Bay of Islands Maritime Park has 144 islands, secluded bays and an abundance of marine life such as marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins and gannets.

Able Tasman
The Abel Tasman National Park is known for it's pristine golden sand beaches forming a point from Tasman Bay to Golden Bay at the top of the South Island of New Zealand – Nelson, New Zealand. This is New Zealand’s smallest national park but unique to the world as a coastal recreation area for New Zealand hiking and tramping. With its mild and sunny climate, curving beaches of golden sands, large tranquil lagoons, and forest covered hills on the edge of turquoise seas, Abel Tasman National Park is a pocket of coastal paradise. At the top of the South Island, Nelson and Golden Bay are fast becoming areas of tourist interest for cultural and crafts and pottery as well as unique scenic beauty.

Kayaking Queen Charlotte Sound

The Marlborough Sounds is located at the 'top end' of the South Island and covers an area of 50,825 ha. Unlike many parks, it is not a single unit but rather separated into 104 different reserves, allowing a wide range of activities to occur within the many confines of its watery expanses. Reaching out into the Pacific Ocean like the fingers of a welcoming hand, the Marlborough Sounds is made up of three different sounds - the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds. This collection of drowned river valleys is a natural wonder, created when the mountains sank in earth movements and the sea flooded into the valleys. Bordered by forested hills rising almost vertically from the water's edge, the Marlborough Sounds are a true scenic wonder. The water displays a thousand shades of colour, ranging from the deepest green to the brightest turquoise. The backdrop is also a myriad shades of green due to a combination of overhanging native tree ferns, rata vines and beech trees.

It is just waiting to be explored and there is truly no better way than by sea kayak. Our kayak trips specialize in venturing into remote and unspoiled areas of the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Experience is not necessary for our trips as we provide training for beginners & challenges for the experienced! The wildlife is testimony to this magnificent environment with fur seals, dolphins and penguins a common sight and nothing beats cruising around wildlife with the near silence of a sea kayak. The Sounds are home to a wide variety of bird and marine life, with a number of specific wildlife sanctuaries dotted throughout its waterways and inlets. Seabirds are in abundance and include species such as blue penguins, petrels, shags, gannets, terns and gulls. The local marine life is also varied with fur seals, dolphins and at times whales. Hectors dolphins, gentle creatures are currently endangered and are endemic to New Zealand waters, can also sometimes be found within the sheltered waterways of the Sounds. Throughout the Sounds, there are nature reserves that are open and accessible from the water. You can paddle your kayak up to one of these islands and go and explore the protected worlds they contain.

While not boasting the mega-resorts of the US or Europe, New Zealand offers you a unique skiing or boarding experience. Immense views, renowned hospitality, world class facilities, terrain from beginners to just downright extreme, and often you'll have the run to yourself.

New Zealand has 12 public ski resorts along with another dozen areas operated by private clubs, and one nordic ski area (Waiorau). All but two are located on the South Island. The two North Island resorts (Whakapapa and Turoa) are New Zealand's largest ski areas, located in the center of the island on Mount Ruapehu, an active volcano.

Most ACTIVE NEW ZEALAND trips pass through Queenstown at some stage and it's here that the majority of snow fields in the South Island operate from. The two closest to town are Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. Within an easy drive you also have access to the Cardrona ski field, and Treble Cone a little further away on the other side of Wanaka.

Winter Temperatures
Winter on the Southern Hemisphere is from June to August so the ski season generally runs from mid June through the end of September. The ski area temps range from 0ºC to 10ºC (32º to 50ºF) but may get lower than this, so sweaters and warm, waterproof jackets are essential items to have with you at all times.

Ski Lessons, Ski Schools and Instructor training

All of the main resorts have comprehensive ski schools to cater for all ages and abilities from toddlers to ski racers. Lessons can be taken individually, as a group, and often as part of a multi-day program, or longer 'ski camp'. There are also opportunties to train as an instructor, or even as a ski patroller. Nonstop run ski & snowboard courses in New Zealand (as well as Canada and France). Their instructor courses enable participants to gain teaching qualifications whilst their improvement camps focus on taking your skiing or snowboarding skills to the next level, whether it be on piste, powder, or park.

New Zealand is at its most dramatic in winter. The snowline is a lot lower, which makes the mountains look amazing, and we get plenty of crisp, clear blue-sky days due to New Zealand’s mild maritime climate. You’ll almost always have the hiking trails and backcountry huts to yourself as well. So if you’re thinking of coming down for a New Zealand tour in June, July or August, it’s a gorgeous time of year. Just remember to bring a few extra layers and a warm hat to hike, kayak and maybe get a few runs in on our local ski fields.

Winter Rimu New Zealand Winter Adventure- 14 days

May to September is one of the best times to explore New Zealand. Our maritime climate ensures we have relatively mild winters, we’ll almost always have the tracks to ourselves and the snow-capped mountains make an even more dramatic backdrop than in summer – and usually you can get a great deal on flights! Years ago, we adapted our signature Rimu trip to suit the cooler conditions by adding skiing and snowboarding options, along with some of the South Island’s best hikes. This adventure is the perfect excuse to escape the heat!

Activity level: This is one of our more adventurous trips, but has options to suit a range of fitness levels and outdoor experience. Typically hikes on the ‘Winter Rimu’ take 3 to 6 hours to complete, with a longer more challenging hike on the Copland Track.

About us

Partners

«Hunters for Luck» Company gives the information about companies, providing hunting, fishing and ecotourism.
You can book a trip, if you fill in the inquiry below every company.
Our service is free of charge, our prices do not include extra charges and commissions.
«Hunters for Luck» also provides Clients with a free informational support.